John Elway knows another Super Bowl can help Peyton Manning's legacy

INDIANAPOLIS – John Elway is still waiting on Peyton Manning’s decision.

All signs are that Manning will return. Elway reiterated at the start of his news conference at the NFL scouting combine that he and the Denver Broncos want Manning back. The organization has said that at every opportunity.

But Elway waits.

“He has not given me a definitive answer of exactly what he wants to do,” Elway said. “But we’re hopeful he will come back.”

Elway said Manning went through a physical in New Orleans and between that and about six weeks off from the season, he feels good. If Manning’s $19 million base salary for 2015, and any possible restructure, is holding things up, Elway wouldn’t say.

“The bottom line is, I don’t like to get into anybody’s contract or discuss anything with contracts,” Elway said. “But I believe he’ll be back and I believe he’ll be our quarterback next [season].”

Elway, like Manning, is one of the legendary quarterbacks in NFL history. And he knows what might work in persuading Manning to return.

“There’s not much he can add to his legacy,” Elway said. “But the one thing he can add is another Super Bowl championship.”

Peyton Manning Career Passing Yards and Touchdowns | FindTheBest

Like Manning, Elway heard a lot about his lack of championships during his career. Manning has one, but  many playoff failures. Elway finished his career with two Super Bowl victories his final two seasons, which tremendously benefited his legacy. He knows the same can happen for Manning and he thinks the Broncos are well positioned for a title run, as long as Manning is back.

“I told him in our meeting, you don't need to throw for another yard and you don't need to throw for another touchdown pass because your legacy is going to be as one of the all-time greats,” Elway said. "But where he can really add to his legacy is to win a Super Bowl. That’s our goal – as it is for 31 other teams – but we feel like we have a really good football team, and Peyton Manning is the best player for us. That’s why we’re hopeful he comes back."

Manning’s salary for 2015 becomes guaranteed on March 9, so the Broncos can’t wait much longer for the official word. But Elway said there was no rush for Manning to give him a decision, and said “he’s got all the time he wants.” He was asked specifically about the March 9 deadline and he repeated his simple answer.

“He’s got all the time he wants,” Elway said.

- - - - - - -

Frank Schwab is the editor of Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at shutdowncorner@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @YahooSchwab